Context:

• Himachal Pradesh, a state characterized by its steep terrain and fragile geological formations, has been increasingly vulnerable to landslides, particularly during the monsoon season. In response to this pressing issue, the Himachal Pradesh government has launched a pioneering bio-engineering initiative aimed at mitigating the frequency and impact of landslides.

Key Points:

•  This initiative, spearheaded by the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) in collaboration with the Vetiver Foundation–Climate Resilience and Sustainability Initiatives (CRSI), focuses on the cultivation of vetiver grass, a plant renowned for its deep and dense root system that stabilizes soil and prevents erosion.
• Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh announced the pilot project, which is set to play a crucial role in enhancing the state's disaster resilience.
• The HPSDMA has requested CRSI to establish vetiver nurseries to ensure a steady supply of plants before the onset of the 2025 monsoon season. As part of this initiative, CRSI has already provided 1,000 vetiver grass saplings, which have been planted in a nursery at Berti in Solan district, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture. Initial monitoring of the project has shown a high survival rate of the plants, indicating their successful adaptation to local conditions.

The role of Vetiver Grass

Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) is a perennial grass that can grow roots extending 3-4 meters deep, forming a robust network that binds the soil and significantly reduces the risk of landslides. Its unique characteristics make it an ideal candidate for slope stabilization:

• Soil stabilization: The deep root system of vetiver grass enhances soil shear strength, effectively preventing slope failures. When planted in rows, it acts as a living wall, further reinforcing the soil structure.
   
• Water management: Vetiver grass slows down water runoff, allowing for better water absorption and reducing soil saturation—a critical factor in landslide occurrences.
   
• Cost-effectiveness: Unlike conventional engineering solutions, which can be expensive and resource-intensive, vetiver grass offers a low-cost, sustainable, and low-maintenance alternative for slope protection.

Addressing the challenges of landslides

• The increasing frequency of landslides in Himachal Pradesh can be attributed to several factors, including heavy monsoon rains, seismic activity, and the state's unique geological characteristics.
• The government recognizes the need for innovative and scientific measures to enhance disaster resilience and protect lives and infrastructure. The bio-engineering initiative is part of a broader strategy to integrate sustainable practices into disaster management.
• Soil bioengineering techniques in Himachal Pradesh involve the use of both living and dead vegetation, such as bamboo, in conjunction with simple civil engineering structures like catch drains and gabion walls.
• For instance, in the Nog area, a bioengineering project involved covering exposed surfaces of potential landslide zones with wire-mesh netting and planting shrubs and grasses within the grid. Such methods not only stabilize slopes but also enhance the aesthetic value of the landscape.